The Canadian Maritimes

National Geographic Explorer

148 Passengers

This special Canadian Maritimes expedition is a circumnavigation of Newfoundland and the islands of Cape Breton, St. Pierre (France) and Iles de la Madeleine aboard National Geographic Explorer. Be on deck as we sail through The Narrows of St. John’s, Newfoundland—along rugged coastline to Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia and the many isles of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Strong maritime traditions endure and we encounter British, Scottish, Acadian, and French influences along the way. Have your camera ready as we discover picturesque harbors and remote fishing villages, iconic lighthouses and lobster boats. Special highlights include a hike on the nature trails of Gros Morne National Park, known for its unique geological features. We’ll learn about the saga of the Vikings at L’Anse aux Meadows, the only known Viking settlement in North America. Discover the dunes, sandstone cliffs, and Acadian cultures of the Iles de la Madeleine. And explore the life of Alexander Graham Bell, National Geographic’s second president, with a special private lunch at the Bell Museum at Baddeck, Cape Breton Island.

EXPEDITION HIGHLIGHTS

Combine Canada’s magnificent scenery with historic places that have forged the character of these northern people—at a wonderful time of year.

Discover coastal fishing villages and small islands, like the French island of St. Pierre, accessible only by sea.

Explore two UNESCO Sites: Gros Morne National Park, with its scenic waterfalls and fjords, and the remains of the 11th-century Viking village at L’Anse aux Meadows.

Get a water-level view in these seafaring places via Zodiac and kayak excursions.

Tour Dates

Arrive in St. John’s, the picturesque capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, set on a natural harbor at the most easterly point of North America. Visit the colorful waterfront and see Cape Spear lighthouse and historic Signal Hill. Settle into our ship as we head through the harbor narrows.

The eastern coast of Newfoundland is wild and rugged, and often accessible only by sea. Discover tiny fishing villages tucked into coves and inlets along these stunning shores. Go hiking or hop into a Zodiac or a kayak. Back on board, gain insights from our experts into the civilizations and wildlife that have made this island home.

In 1960, the remains of a Viking village established in the 11th century were discovered at L’Anse aux Meadows, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk among the Norse ruins and reconstructed sod huts and learn the saga of the Vikings in North America—nearly 500 years before Columbus arrived.

Graced by cliffs, fjords, and a sweeping alpine plateau, Gros Morne National Park has been designated a World Heritage site for its spectacular geology. Take a walk with our geologist to learn about the forces that shaped this land and the ancient serpentine rock that illustrates the phenomenon of plate tectonics. Continue to Western Brook Pond, a pristine, glacier carved fjord.

A cluster of wispy islands isolated in the Guf of St. Lawrence, the Îles de la Madeleine are home to miles of dunes, grassy hills, and dazzling red sandstone cliffs. The caves, sea arches, and rocly nooks are perfect for exploring by Zodiac and kayak. Visit La Grave, site of the islands’ first settlement, and learn about Acadian culture; or set off on a hike or a bicycle ride. Weather permitting, enjoy a lobster bake on the beach with local musicians.

In the morning, set sail aboard the schooner Amoeba on Bras d’Or Lake, and listen to lively local lore as you take in the green foliage along the shore. On Cape Breton Island, dock in the village of Baddeck, where Alexander Graham Bell, National Geographic’s second president, built his summer home and conducted much of his research. Enjoy an optional “white glove” tour of the Bell Museum and the opportunity to hold historic artifacts.

As we make our way north, go ashore at Saint Pierre Island, France’s oldest remaining overseas territory. As a young reporter, Gil Grosvenor first traveled here in 1967 on assignment for National Geographic. Enjoy free time to explore the wharf and soak up the French culture before continuing to the island of Miquelon.